Buttermilk white cake with coconut

1. Let egg whites stand at room temperature 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans; set aside.

2. In large mixing bowl combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. Add buttermilk, shortening, and vanilla; beat on low until combined. Beat on medium 2 minutes more, scraping bowl. Add egg whites; beat 2 minutes more. (Batter will appear curdled.)

3. Spread in pans. Bake 25-30 minutes or until tops spring back when lightly touched and wooden pick inserted near centers comes out clean. Cool on wire rack for 10 minutes. Remove from pans; cool completely.

4. Prepare Buttercream Frosting. Place layer flat side down on plate; spread top with some of the frosting. Stack second layer flat side down; frost top and sides. Sprinkle coconut. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate. Makes 16 servings.

5. Buttercream Frosting: In 4-quart mixing bowl beat 3/4 cup softened butter on medium until smooth. Gradually beat in 3 cups powdered sugar to combine. Beat in 1/4 cup buttermilk or milk and 2 tsp. vanilla. Gradually beat in enough additional powdered sugar (3-1/4-3-3/4 cups) to make of spreading consistency.

6. *Sour Milk: Pour 1 Tbsp. lemon juice or vinegar in 1-cup glass measure; add milk to equal 1 cup. Let stand 5 minutes.